Helping the Mexican Economy

Yesterday morning was beautiful, as four of us enjoyed our coffee up on the pallapa, which requires about 40 steep steps. But the sunny view was well worth it! The special cooing of the doves (they coo in Spanish!), the sound of the church bells, and the quiet of Sunday morning were a peaceful beginning to our day. A bit later Bernice and I went to church together. Despite being in another language, there is something so comforting about the familiar ritual that is universal.

One of the tragic side effects of the drug cartel fighting is that the entire economy of Mexico has been hurt. We see it in markets, restaurants, and hotels--the locals are glad to hear we are spreading the word back home that travel in San Miguel is SAFE! I have noticed a number of businesses are gone from a year ago, and no that so many families have been hurt. We ate lunch in a darling restaurant yesterday and had this conversation with the owner/waiter.

Yesterday was a very exciting day for the entire community, and it seems every resident was in El Jardin last night. Earlier in the day we had walked around, looking in shops and buying vegetables in the market (and other things). Passing back through the jardin people were constructing elaborate altars to Los Muertos in their families. Marigolds is the most frequently used flower, and photos, foods, banners, candles, and more are added.

My little friends were waiting for me, and although I had already had lunch they were eager that we go somewhere nearby. Being a little short on cash after shopping, I had them share a sandwich and then they each had their own dessert, since they couldn´t agree on which one. They must think I have deep pockets, but what a joy it is to see their eyes light up.

After we five women went back to our casa, we rested, talked, and ate a light meal of guacamole, tostados, and tangerines from the tree in our yard. We have discovered that what we originally thought was an orange tree is actually a lemon tree with an orange branch grafted on! After our meal we were tired, and actually considered staying home in the evening. But I knew Juan and Christina would be disappointed, so we all agreed to go for at least an hour. And we were so glad we did! The Jardin was FILLED with mariachi bands, candles, a performance that appeared to be in the Aztec tradition, and literallty hundreds of people! There was a huge parade of teens and young adults in make-up and costume. Also many children in costumes saying, "Happy Halloween," and holding out their bags for candy. Fortunately, we had bought some earlier in the day, but had to buy more from a local stand. It was all quickly gone. I had also brought little bracelets that light up from the Dollar Store back home, but should have bought lots more. They were a hit!

As four of us are retired teachers, we were so impressed by the orderliness of the entire event--no screaming or running or disorder at all, but everyone smiling and walking calmly. We have great pictures and videos of this.

This morning we decided to go out to breakfast, as we haven´t done that since the first morning, and we walked directly to the Hotel Sierra Nevada by the nearby Parque de Benito Juarez. Had a most leisurely delicious breakfast, then on the way back met a young artist selling his oils and prints in the park. We couldn´t resist, as his work truly captures the beauty and colors of the city. We each bought a print of the city, for about $16 each. He looks about 24, but assured us he is 41 years old.

Then we walked around another section of the city that was new to us, veering into shops that beckoned. Now I am going back to the Jardin to once again meet up with mi amigos, Juan and Christina. I´m sure they´ll be ready to eat lunch, although I am not. That´s just fine. The people of Mexico are the real art, and the memories of their smiles will be the best souvenirs.

We are planning to go to Guanajuato, the state capital, by bus on Wednesday for another day trip. We are pretty much done shopping . . . I think.

Adios for now.

Gayle and amigas